The January special guest presenters will be Alan Thometz, CFA, Director of Transaction Advisory Services for Grant Thornton LLP. Thometz will speak on “China’s M & A due diligence pitfalls.”

To acquire a business is a journey and in the words of Lao Tzu, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Thometz says that one of the first steps to help increase the chance of a successful merger or acquisition is thorough financial and tax due diligence. He said this gives you an understanding of the business and identifies the issues you need to know to make an informed decision and to get the valuation right.

Due diligence in China must address some common pitfalls. This presentation will discuss: Multiple sets of books; poor quality / unreliable financial information; financial control weaknesses; non-compliance with labor laws; and related-party transactions.

The networking and breakfast session begins at 7:30 a.m. The presentation begins at 8 a.m. The meeting adjourns at 9 a.m. with optional networking opportunities to follow.

The $30 fee for non-members and $15 for first time guests includes breakfast. Students may attend free. Parking is available at the Harmon Avenue and 11th ramp, or at the 10th and Hennepin ramp. A $5 parking voucher is available for with registration to e-mail [email protected] or call Jim Smith: 612-865-6543.